Cannabis News
How Do You Make Money in Cannabis? Don’t Pay Your Vendors!
In contemporary times, it’s disheartening to observe a landscape where regulations proliferate while integrity seemingly dwindles. This phenomenon appears particularly pronounced within a segment of the California cannabis sector. A recent viral video captured dispensary proprietors boasting about their financial gains from neglecting payments to smaller, independent vendors.
(You can watch the full video on LinkedIn here)
In one exchange, an owner expressed satisfaction at the savings accrued by avoiding payments to struggling “mom-and-pop” businesses. “You know what’s so cool,” the owner remarked, “How much money we’ve saved by not paying the vendors that have gone out of business…I’m talking about these mom-and-pop brands that come and go.”
This instance likely represents just one facet of a broader issue. To delve deeper into the state of affairs within the California cannabis realm, Benzinga sought insights from the founders of Stone Road. Operating a farm in Northern California with operations spanning five states, Stone Road has experienced significant financial setbacks, having been denied payment totaling tens of thousands of dollars.
Lex Corwin, Stone Road’s CEO and co-founder, shed light on the circumstances surrounding the demise of numerous small-scale enterprises. He attributed their downfall to retailers withholding payments for extended periods, often exceeding 100 days, thereby driving these enterprises into bankruptcy, or the term “dankrupt” as the cannabis industry calls it.
Corwin recently took to social media to share his company’s plight, highlighting a paradox wherein illicit operations demonstrate greater integrity compared to legal entities. He elucidated that while legal retailers may delay payments for up to 200 days, participants in the illicit market typically settle transactions immediately.
This video cut the cannabis industry deeply because it violated human trust and a sense of “teamwork” among smaller operators as they try to navigate an already tough industry. While the violators may try to distract and lay blame on the illicit market, their actions, human to human, business to business, are despicable and when repeated over and over, destroy businesses and lives.
If the cannabis industry small-operators cannot trust each other to be good, honest people, then how do you expect to compete with much lager MSOs and corporate cannabis companies? Greed ends up hurting everyone involved, those small mom-and-pop vendors relied on untrustworthy and people with poor character and got burned.
The cannabis industry used to rally and lift each other up, now some are scheming to destroy each other just to make an extra buck.
Norman Yousif is a disgrace to the cannabis industry, and an embarrassment to his family. I wonder what line of excuses he would give his mother or father after watching his video. I wonder what kind of shame they feel watching their son?
Revisiting a Familiar Issue
In a recent interview, he expressed a sense of frustration, likening the discussion to “beating a dead horse,” given the frequency with which it occupies his conversations. He straightforwardly identified some retailers’ reluctance to meet their financial obligations as the foremost obstacle to fostering a robust industry.
But how did this predicament come to pass? What factors contributed to this tumultuous state of affairs?
According to Corwin, three primary factors are at play. “Firstly,” he explained, “unethical practices abound, with certain entities leveraging credit terms across multiple brands to fuel their expansion endeavors—a behavior that not only lacks integrity but also warrants legal scrutiny.” “Secondly,” he continued, “certain regions suffer from a saturation of dispensaries, exemplified by Santa Rosa’s abundance of over 30 legal establishments attempting to serve a population of 170,000, while larger urban areas like Bakersfield and Irvine lack legal options altogether.” “Lastly,” he emphasized, “excessive taxation burdens weigh heavily on retailers, with state and local taxes accounting for over 25% of gross revenue.”
Sabrina Wheeler, Stone Road’s COO, highlighted the lack of alternatives in the illicit market, where credit terms have never been a consideration. Both Wheeler and Corwin adamantly discourage patronizing illicit sources, underscoring the absence of product testing therein. Wheeler further noted that despite the risks of legal repercussions for tax evasion faced by illegal operators, many consumers find legal, tested, and taxed cannabis financially unattainable.
Corwin emphasized that substantive progress on this issue hinges on legislative action. “Ultimately,” he argued, “the implementation of credit laws is imperative, as even prominent retail chains in California persist in chronic non-payment.”
The Demise of a Delivery Titan
In November of last year, Grassdoor, a prominent marijuana delivery service based in California, ceased operations, leaving several businesses, including Stone Road, in debt.
“In light of the closure of one of our major clients, Grassdoor, and the substantial debts owed to hard-working farmers, brands, manufacturers, and others, it’s truly disheartening to persevere,” wrote Corwin in a social media post.
Had Stone Road received any communication from Grassdoor?
“We have yet to receive any communication from the Grassdoor team expressing remorse for this situation, which is disappointing,” Corwin informed Benzinga. “Instead, we’ve been contacted by the receiver overseeing their liquidation, though the timeline for repayment, if any, remains uncertain. It appears that significant financial mismanagement contributed to their downfall, as they continued to acquire competitors while accumulating substantial unpaid invoices.”
Corwin emphasized, “The market’s structure is fundamentally flawed,” attributing part of the issue to excessive taxation.
Wheeler observed that Grassdoor seemed to have an excessive workforce. “At one point, they had three purchasing managers. In times of turmoil, a lean and resilient team is crucial. Everyone must be adaptable. Speaking from experience, Lex and I operate as a two-person team with no full-time employees besides our farm crew. We oversee every aspect from cultivation to sales, which is essential. Like many others, we face financial constraints, yet we’ve never failed to compensate anyone.”
No Remorse, Just Passion for Diligent and Ethical Endeavors
Despite the tumultuous climate, neither Corwin nor Wheeler harbor regrets about venturing into the cannabis industry.
“While navigating this industry has proven exceptionally challenging over the past six years, I remain steadfast in my commitment,” asserted Wheeler. “They say diamonds are forged under pressure, and I firmly believe that by weathering these trials, adapting strategically, and maintaining ethical standards, we position ourselves as an attractive prospect for corporate acquisition once cannabis achieves federal legalization.”
Corwin echoed her sentiments, emphasizing that every adversity serves as a valuable lesson. Despite the industry’s rigors, he stressed the importance of fully embracing this audacious experiment. “Finding joy in your work is paramount,” he remarked. “I derive immense satisfaction from my work and deal-making; I couldn’t envision myself pursuing anything else. Over the next two years, anticipate our expansion across California and our foray into at least three new states.”
For Wheeler, alongside passion, discipline stands as the cornerstone for persisting in the arduous yet principled journey, ensuring that moral integrity remains unwavering.
Bottom Line
The cannabis industry in California faces significant challenges, including unethical practices, oversaturation of dispensaries, and excessive taxation burdens. Recent revelations of dispensary owners bragging about avoiding payments to vendors underscore the need for regulatory reform and ethical accountability within the sector. Despite these obstacles, companies like Stone Road remain committed to integrity and perseverance, advocating for legislative action to address systemic issues. Moving forward, fostering a transparent and equitable marketplace will be crucial for the long-term sustainability and growth of the cannabis industry in California.
BAD ACTORS ABOUND IN CANNABIS, READ ON…
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..
Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
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From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
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Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
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As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
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Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
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Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
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Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
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Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
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Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
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FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
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Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
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Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
WHAT IS KRATOM ANYWAY? READ ON…
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